PHOTO: Falling for it!  Terry Precision Cycling's Cargo Skort.   Wrap style with cycling shorts underneath & a very handy cargo pocket in front.  Shoes by Specialized.

Ah yes!  Fall is upon us.  Cooler temperatures and a fabulous display of changing leaves make this a wonderful time to do some cycling or walking.  Benefits to mind and body abound but what if you've gotten a little "soft" over the summer?  If so, you'll need to ease into your fall renewal plan so that you can really enjoy this season.

To make it easier, I have some tried and true suggestions for clothing, gear and most importantly, your training table.  There are things that I do each year to prepare for charity and recreational events that can make the difference between enjoying the day or being sidelined due to exaustion or even worse, injury.  I have stepped up use of my universal machine, weight lifting is for the most part an-aerobic.  Building endurance comes by doing aerobic exercises such as walking, skating or running.  Pick an activity that you truly enjoy and go with it.  If it feels like fun, you will be more apt to stick with it.  Seeing the same scenery for your daily walk can be a bore.  Mix it up!  Try a different route or even a different activity on alternate days.  The thing is to stay in the game.

Dress for Success!

I truly thrive on cycling!  This summer we took our musical instruments on bicycle to the park for a jam session.  It was great!  We've also packed our Trangia Cookstove and prepared a picnic lunch al fresco under the trees.   What makes these sorts of outtings so successful is choosing clothing that is both functional and attractive.  Terry's Cargo Skorts, (pictured above), are what I wear most for comfort, coolness with the convenience of a pouch pocket right where I need it.  When it gets cooler, I simply layer a pair of sheer tights under and can wear them well into the fall.  Another great transitional piece is the NEW Terry Scooter Capris which offer a looser, "baggy" fit.  These are fantastic as they are perfect for both commuters and cycling buffs alike.  The Scooters come with a removeable, soft cycling chamois that is very comfortable in the saddle.  Better still, you can arrive at your destination without your apparel announcing you've arrived on bicycle!

PHOTO: Terry's NEW Scooter Capri "Baggies".

These are a fantastic alternative to the traditional spandex cycling shorts. In fact, I don't often wear the tight, shiny cycling shorts except for racing.  That's because like many people today, I use my bicycle for multi-tasking.  I combine many of my local errands and trips with my exercise time.  Where ever I end up, I look fresh and stylish.  The only give-away that I have been traveling by bicycle is if I forget to remove my cycling helmet!  People look and say that is "one stylish woman" which is what most of us want to hear.  Terry's Scooter Capris have both a snap and a zippered pocket in front with reflective accents on the legs and articulated knees.  These are the MOST comfortable cycling pants that I own.  The removable chamois is super flexible and fits my contours so nobody can tell I'm wearing anything under these capris.  Check them out at Terry Precision Cycling online! 

Now Top This!

The best thing to due during your fall routine is layer your tops.  This time of the year the mornings start off quite cool but by noon, temperatures can warm up considerably.  If you intend to be out through those times, you might need to consider what sort of top to wear.   Consider a cotton full zippered hoodie such the one pictured here.  As the temperature rises, simply unzip to allow more air flow.  The pockets in front can hold a handkerchief or energy bar.  Better still, it can be worn for other activities such as your morning walks or jogging.  PHOTO: C.F. Martin's Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt available at their 1833 Shop online.

Your Training Table

Sometimes we need a little help to kick start our bodies back into gear.  I can recommend Rainbow Light's CleanseAway 7- Day Renewal Program.  Poor diet and exercise can often lead to poor elimination as well.  This can show up as extra pounds, feeling bloated and tired.  There is no need for that and in as little as seven days, your whole digestive system can be rejuvenated.  I used the CleanseAway 7 Day Renewal and noticed blemishes that I had, cleared up.  It was gentle and stimulant free so no cramping surprises.  I followed this up with Rainbow Light's NEW ThinBerry Opti-Curb which is a high protein, low carb energy drink powder which is also high in fiber.  I would recommend using the two products for best results.  The ThinBerry Opti-Curb mixes very easily into most any liquid but here is a great blender recipe I've come up with for fall:

ThinBerry Apple 'n Spice

1 Scoop of ThinBerry Opti-Curb Powder (Cinnamon / Vanilla flavor) 

1  8 oz container of low / nonfat plain or vanilla yogurt

1 large Apple

1 cup crushed ice

Core the apple but leave it unpeeled.  Place all the ingredients in your blender and process at high speed.  Pour into a stainless steel drink bottle to take with your for your walk, ride or exercise routine.  The extra fiber and protein will help you feel full while building lean muscle.  The best of both worlds!  Visit Rainbow Light online for more nutritional & health supplements.

The Recap

If you really want to turn over a "new leaf" this fall, these are some very easy, non-invasive ideas to energize and drop some body fat.  Exercising in cooler temperatures is a great way to do that  and with a little planning, you can look great on your way and upon arrival at your destination.  Your training table is important because you'll want to renew from the inside out.  Fall is the perfect time for an inner cleansing.  Since many of us are concerned about the flu season, specifically the Swine Flu, ( h1n 1), keep in mind that nearly 80% of your immune system stems from the digestive tract.  I have found that maintaining a healthy intestinal flora to be the first line of defense.  I can recommend Rainbow Light's ProbioActive 1B with 1 billion active Lactobacillus sporogenes plus Inulin, Larch and other soothing botanticals.

All of these implementations can help you to look and feel your best as we move into what could be your best autumn ever!